The best way to become a car mechanic is to take the recommended courses in your area to become certified, followed by intense job searching using various methods. The types of training necessary may vary based on location, but can include formal educational courses as well as apprenticeships. In some cases, both methods may be used at your discretion. Once you have become certified in automotive repair and maintenance, you can begin looking for a job by calling around to various body shops and searching job boards.
Many areas now require formal training in order for someone to become a car mechanic. These classes are generally offered at technical schools, community colleges, or specialized training centers. Names of courses may include automotive technician, mechanic, or service specialist. In some cases, you may even be able to complete training tailored to a specific car manufacturer. This would allow you to repair and maintain cars made by that car maker, making it easier to get jobs at dealerships and other places where those cars are sold exclusively.
Once you have obtained the training you need, you will likely be required to take an examination in order to become certified. The formal training should prepare you well for this exam. In many areas you can take the exam more than once if you do not score high enough on your first attempt.
After getting your certification, you can continue on to become a car mechanic by visiting local dealerships, body shops, and specialty shops and asking about employment opportunities. You may be asked to fill out an application. In some cases, you may be able to meet with a manager right away, so be prepared in this event.
If you don’t find the job you are looking for by visiting local mechanics, you can also become a car mechanic by opening your own business. This will require an initial start-up investment for work space, marketing, and licensing, but the income potential may be greater in the long run. To get started in business ownership, you will need to take out a loan for any funding needed and obtain a business license from your local government. Once you are up and running, you will need to develop a marketing plan to bring in customers.